Reclaim New York: Tompkins County is unaffordable because of taxes and expenses

Tompkins County is unaffordable, says a statewide organization aiming to reform state government.

Citing high taxes and steep basic expenses, Reclaim New York says Tompkins County residents are among the thousands fleeing for lower cost communities beyond New York’s borders.

During an event on Wednesday at Coltivare, George Phillips, Southern Tier regional director for Reclaim New York and former Republican candidate in New York’s 22nd district, presented a report titled “New York’s Affordability Crisis.” He said the document offers a clear explanation of why residents are relocating.

Critics have pointed to New York’s high taxes, among the highest in the nation, as a key reason for the exodus, despite attempts by the state to limit taxes by initiating a property-tax cap and cutting income taxes.